He came for the weekend with a wish to break away from routines and try something new. If traveling and discovering new places excites you, this is a destination worth considering. A weekend escape is the perfect plan. And when the destination is nearby, travel time is short, leaving more time for relaxation and activities. With that in mind, three beautiful spots for a rural escape near Alicante are highlighted.
Three beautiful towns near Alicante for a rural getaway
Close to the province of Alicante lie wonderful towns where visitors can enjoy a relaxed holiday. We have picked three that are all under two hours away by car and offer a broad range of rural accommodations and leisure options. These places are Cofrentes, Alcalá del Júcar, and Moratalla. Here is a closer look at each of them.
Top 5 routes and excursions to explore in Alicante this weekend
The town of Cofrentes sits about an hour and a half from Alicante and features a charming historic center along with a pristine natural setting. A standout activity is the river route along the Júcar, which offers a boat ride that begins in Cofrentes and departs from Pallas Courts. The journey lasts about an hour and covers roughly 14 kilometers on the Cortes reservoir.
Another natural highlight near the district is the Cerro de Agras Volcano, from which visitors can enjoy magnificent views of the municipality.
Exploring the city center reveals notable monuments such as the clock tower, the oldest within its castle complex. Other important sights include the Brother Pastor’s house, the Soledad hermitage, and the San José neighborhood.
Alcalá del Júcar in Albacete is regarded as one of the most beautiful towns in Castilla la Mancha and Spain, making it a worthy stop. It is about 155 kilometers from Alicante, a drive of under two hours. Among its attractions are a Roman bridge spanning the Júcar river and the imposing castle perched above the town. The ascent through steep streets feels like stepping back in time.
You can also explore cave houses carved directly into the rock where the town sits.
If you love nature, take the opportunity to walk on a route in the surrounding area. There are several trails, and the easiest to follow is the sinking road that winds up the valley, giving hikers a spectacular view of the Hoz del Júcar.
Located in the Region of Murcia and within two hours’ drive from Alicante, Moratalla stands out as a charming town with a wide range of rural accommodations. Its main sights include the stronghold of the Order of Santiago and the Church of the Assumption of Our Lady. Both landmarks sit atop the town, inviting visitors to stroll the steep streets of the historic center.
If hiking appeals, there are several trails set against the natural backdrop. One notable route passes through Sierra del Buitre.
Before starting any hiking, check the local weather across different municipalities and wear suitable clothing and gear.